Breslau Residents Get Extended Deadline, Interest Waived on $14K Bill

URGENT UPDATE: Breslau residents facing a staggering $14,000 bill for decade-old sewer and water work will now have more time to pay, as Woolwich Township waives interest for those opting into a 20-year payment plan. The announcement comes after a tense council meeting on November 18, where Mayor Sandy Shantz empathized with the community, acknowledging the “worry and frustration” caused by the unexpected charges.

The township had previously set a deadline of December 19, 2024, for residents to choose their payment method or risk immediate payment of the total bill, which amounts to $13,950.19 per household. However, following significant pushback from impacted residents, the township has now extended the deadline for full payment to May 1, 2026, giving families some much-needed breathing room.

The controversy began when 25 property owners received bills for a project completed in 2016, totaling $348,754.75. A vote in 2014 had seen 77% of residents approve the extension of water and sewer services, but complications arose when the township entered litigation with the construction company, delaying the billing process until this year.

During the meeting, residents expressed outrage over the 6.7% interest rate attached to the proposed payment plan, which would effectively double the cost to around $25,725. Community member Mark Schmidt questioned the fairness of the bylaw and the rushed timeline for payment decisions, urging council to reconsider the entire levy process.

In a split decision, the council debated whether to absorb the costs entirely, with some members arguing it would jeopardize funding for other essential projects. While a motion to cover the full amount was defeated, a unanimous vote to waive the interest and extend payment deadlines was passed.

Residents are now relieved but remain vigilant as they navigate this financial burden. They have until September 2026 to settle the bill in full, a small consolation as they continue to voice their concerns over the lack of communication from the township over the past nine years.

As the situation unfolds, the township has committed to improving its communication policies to prevent such issues in the future. The focus now shifts to how residents will manage this unexpected financial hit and what further actions the township will take to support them.

The urgency of this issue highlights the pressing need for local governments to maintain clear communication with their communities, especially when financial implications are involved. Breslau residents are encouraged to stay informed and engaged as they navigate these developments.